Learning leadership from those who led in the Bible

What’s Determination Have To Do With It?

Bible Character: Samson

“O sovereign Lord, remember me. O God, please strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes.” Then Samson reached toward the two central pillars on which the temple stood. Judges 16: 28-29 NIV

Even when facing death, Samson was filled with determination to fight the Philistines, a characteristic that was present the entire 20 years that he led Israel.

Self-Determined

A leader has to have a strong inner desire to succeed. Often self-determination is what separates a leader from a follower. If the coach is not the most determined person in the room, the team will have trouble winning.

Leadership is often faced with difficult situations. It takes a resolute individual to confront those challenges, conclude the best answers, and deliver the correct solutions.

Commitment

“Unless commitment is made, there are only promises and hopes… but no plans.” – Peter Drucker

Commitment is similar to determination, but it is the engagement part of the formula. It’s almost like a promise, which means you will follow through on your goals. When this is used in a team environment it can be very powerful.

In athletics, you often see this concept. Two individuals with the same raw ability, but one has a larger commitment towards practice… the hard work to hone that raw talent. Often when the others on the team see that talented individual putting in the necessary work to improve, others follow suit.

Patience

Samson could be accused of not having much patience; nevertheless, often patience is needed at some point of leadership. Seeing the long term vision, and sticking to the plan even through the peaks and valleys that accompany the effort, is the sign of a determined leader.